The Unseen Heiress
As the illegitimate daughter in a household that scorns her, Emilia has learned to endure a life of cruel whispers and cold glares. But her fate takes an unexpected turn when her spoiled half-sister disappears on the eve of her arranged marriage. The family forces Emilia to wed the rumored crippled and disfigured groom in her sister's place—an ominous task they hope will rid them of her for good. Yet, when Emilia meets her new husband, Damien Blackwood, she is stunned. This mysterious man is neither crippled nor disfigured. Instead, he’s handsome, powerful, and hiding secrets as dark as her own. With the Blackwood family’s treacherous history looming over them, Emilia realizes she has entered a world far more dangerous than her own home—a world where alliances are built on lies and love can turn into a weapon. As she delves deeper, Emilia uncovers shocking secrets that link her family’s downfall to Damien’s ruthless kin. Now, torn between the man she’s come to trust and the whispers of betrayal around every corner, Emilia must decide: will she seek revenge on those who’ve wronged her or fight alongside Damien to claim her rightful legacy? In a game where love, power, and loyalty are tested, Emilia must face her past to shape her future… even if it means risking her life.
Chapter 73: A Proposal of Trust
The day was unusually calm, as if the world itself had decided to give me a moment's reprieve. The estate, bustling with activity during its restoration, had fallen into an afternoon lull. Workers had left for their break, and the only sounds were the rustling of leaves in the soft breeze and the distant chirping of birds.
I sat under the massive oak tree in the garden, one of the oldest and most beloved parts of the estate. With a book in hand, I tried to lose myself in its pages, but my thoughts kept drifting to the events of the past few months. The trials, the betrayals, the victories—they were all behind me now, but they lingered like echoes in my mind.
"Lost in thought again?"
I looked up to see Damien approaching, a gentle smile on his face. He carried a small picnic basket, his shirt sleeves rolled up and his tie slightly loosened, giving him an air of relaxed elegance.